Gooseberry and elderflower cordial is a delightful and refreshing beverage that combines the tartness of gooseberries with the floral essence of elderflower. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, you can create a homemade cordial that is both flavorful and invigorating. The tangy gooseberries and delicate elderflower petals infuse the syrup, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors. Whether enjoyed on its own over ice, mixed with sparkling water, or used as a base for cocktails, gooseberry and elderflower cordial offers a delightful combination of sweet and floral notes that will quench your thirst. Embrace the creativity of making this homemade cordial and savor its deliciousness with every sip.
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Gooseberry and Elderflower Cordial
Ingredients
- 10-12 freshly picked heads elderflower (or more if you pick smaller florets)
- 600 g granulated sugar (1 lb 5 oz)
- 600 ml water (20 fl oz)
- 250 g green gooseberries, topped and tailed (9 oz)
- 2 unwaxed lemons (or 1 unwaxed lemon and 20g (¾oz) (maybe less) citric acid)
- Soda or sparkling water (to serve)
Instructions
- Pick over the elderflower heads, trimming the flowers away from the stalk and shaking out any insects.
- Put the sugar in a large saucepan and add the measured water. Heat over a low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved. Bring to the boil and add the gooseberries.
- Simmer for 7–8 minutes, then take off the heat.
- While the gooseberries are simmering, finely pare the rind of the lemon(s) and slice the flesh. Swirl the elderflowers gently in a bowl of cold water.
- Remove the elderflowers from the water and add to the sugar syrup along with the lemon rind and slices and the citric acid, if using. Stir, lightly cover with a clean tea towel and leave in a cool place overnight.
- Strain the cordial through a fine sieve into a wide-necked jug or bowl. Pour the cordial through a funnel into 2 x 75cl) sterilized glass bottles and seal. Store in the refrigerator and consume within a month. You can also freeze the cordial in plastic bottles, though remember to leave some headspace to allow the liquid to expand.
- To serve, dilute to taste with soda or sparkling water.